We took a walk one nice sunny afternoon to what is called Candie Gardens. It used to be a large private estate, and was donated to the city upon the death of the owner. It's a lovely open space, full of flowers and all kinds of green beauty, a calm and peaceful park, sitting in the midst of a busy city; a nice spot to meet people, ask questions, learn more about the island, and the culture. These bold colored flowers were amazing. Though the air is always chilly, these and other "cold tolerant" flowers like pansies have been in bloom since we arrived in January.
While in the garden we met an elderly lady named Ruth, who had a fascinating life story ...born in Germany, a child during the war, a Jew, escaping, growing up in Africa, later getting to England, becoming a doctor, retiring, and now living with her son here in Guernsey. She asked about us, we told about ourselves and about the church; she listened intently, and asked questions. We gave her some pamphlets to read, and she said she'd see us the same time there again, when the weather is nice and not windy... saying "if it's too windy, it blows me right over." (She was a thin little gal).
All through March, daffodils were up and blooming everywhere. It was strange to see many groups of them in the grassy fields. We were told that previously flower farms were common, with budding flowers being a main export at one time.
Large groups of tulips are now blooming in many places along the main port street, mostly in the center of big round-a-bouts.
This beauty, I think, is a flower on a Camellia tree, which has also been in blossom since we arrived on the island. They look like roses in their design. Getting really close to one, it seems the pedals are waxed; they are very sturdy tough pedals, and they last a long time.
No idea what this is, but it is very unique and a lovely color; also seemed to be thick and strong.
And on to other interesting things:
This is Elizabeth College-Junior School...which is like Jr. High School in America. This one is for girls. We have no idea what the very colorful knitted pieced wrapping around the tree trunk is for, but it caught our eye. We hope to pass by there sometime when a person is available to explain :)
This school is for the young men and women upper high school grades.. Called the Elizabeth College.
The regular city bus system also does the school children's busing. They have to walk to the bus stop areas along the main streets to get on the bus. In the afternoon, all the children and youth we see walking to their homes or to the bus stops are dressed in uniform... that is- the boys in sharp suits, and the girls wearing plaid skirts and tights, and tailored jackets.
